The Dangers of Heat Exposure in Construction Work

Brian Ricci, an
attorney representing construction workers across all North Carolina. With summer just around the corner, many companies
who rely on outdoor workers are preparing to ramp up their safety training
programs. Keeping workers safe while out in the heat is a serious matter,
and there are many heat-related injuries and even deaths that take place
each and every year. The construction industry is at an especially elevated
risk of heat-related issues, as the majority of work is completed outside
and often under time constraints. The following information is offered
in the hopes of informing both employers and construction workers on the
importance of taking proper safety precautions while working outdoors
during the summer months in and around Greenville, North Carolina.

Perceived vs Real Dangers

Construction workers, in general, are a tough lot. These are the men and
women who build our homes, schools, hospitals and office buildings. They
create the roads that we rely on and the infrastructure that keeps our
nation running. Very often, they have become accustomed to working in
an environment in which there are ever-present dangers and uncomfortable
conditions. While that grit and work ethic is a requirement for the job,
it can also leave construction workers vulnerable to serious heat-related
injuries. One of the most impactful things that employers and management
staff can do to reduce the risk of heat exposure on the job site is to
educate workers on heat-related issues.

That begins with an overview of the body's capabilities and limitations.
The human body is complex, and we are able to adapt to a wide range of
environmental conditions. When it comes to heat exposure, our bodies react
by producing sweat, and the evaporation of that sweat is powerful temperature
regulating mechanism. However, there comes a point beyond which sweating
alone is not sufficient to reduce body temperature. At that point, heat
exhaustion and other heat-related injuries can occur.

What is Heat Exhaustion?

Heat exhaustion occurs when the body is not capable of maintaining a healthful
internal temperature. An individual's body temperature will continue
to rise, and their heart rate will hasten. The next step is often a feeling
of lost concentration and inability to focus normally. Ironically, people
tend to lose the desire to drink fluids as heat exhaustion progresses,
which does nothing to make the situation better. Finally, the individual
may feel physically ill or faint. A loss of consciousness is a sign that
immediate treatment is necessary, and death is a possibility if emergency
medical care is not available. Other heat-related health issues include
cramps, heat stroke, dehydration and overall exhaustion leading to workplace
accidents.

What Can Workers do to Avoid Heat-Related Injuries?

Workers can protect their health first and foremost by paying close attention
to the signals that their body is sending. Many workers find that adhering
to scheduled work/rest cycles is an effective way to address heat fatigue,
while others will work increasingly longer periods of time in the heat
to build up a tolerance. Drinking plenty of water is critical, and should
be a part of every worker's daily routine. Finally, workers should
take advantage of any training that is offered in regard to workplace
safety, and should address any concerns about their working conditions
to the appropriate member of management. In cases where safe working conditions
are not properly addressed, it may be necessary to report the employer
to the appropriate authorities.

Summer is a busy time in the Pitt County area, especially for construction
workers who take advantage of the warm days to continue to expand and
improve our buildings and roadways. By taking the time to learn about
heat-related occupational dangers and review safe practices, it is possible
to avoid serious workplace injuries, and to enjoy those warm summer days
and nights for many years to come.

The information on this website is for general information purposes only.
Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual
case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt
or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.

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